Flying

I pushed the power levers forward. Both engines came to life and I was quickly jammed back into my seat. In a blink we were at 120 knots—jet speed. I heaved the control yoke toward me, climbed out of Milwaukee into the starless black night and headed out over the wintry waters of Lake Michigan.

Rather than downplay the HondaJet’s unconventional look, with its over-the-wing engine mount (OTWEM), the manufacturer has chosen to embrace it. The new ad campaign features a series of clever images that suggest the frontal shape of the developmental jet, with appropriately positive connotations. Knowing the history of the HondaJet’s development, I love it.